African Dance Class by Charlotte Ballet at First Baptist Church West on Jan. 28, 2017. (Photo by Jon Strayhdorn)

And just like that, the weekend quickly approaches, thanks to a short work week as we honored MLK. It will be cold, but don’t let the frigid air keep you inside. Catch up on the Oscar-nominated movies and shows another time. There’s a number of live and interactive events taking place that you should consider checking out, including ASC’s popular Connect with Culture Days and African Drum Circle.

As Charlotte’s landscape continues to evolve, gentrification and affordable housing are hot topics. On Monday, join the community conversation related to the book, “Color of Law,” with a moderated panel featuring author Richard Rothstein and local affordable housing advocates.

Have a great weekend!

Sponsor Promotions

Connect with Culture Days

(Fri. & Sat.) — Explore diverse arts, science and history experiences across Charlotte-Mecklenburg for FREE. ASC’s Connect with Culture Days — when you, your family, friends and neighbors will have free access to arts, science, history experiences across Charlotte-Mecklenburg.

African Drum Circle

(Sat.) — Experience the spontaneous creation of music. The African Drum Circle returns as a free Culture Blocks event at the Albemarle Road Recreation Center. No prior experience necessary.

Color of Law

(Mon.) — Join a community book read highlighting “Color of Law” by Richard Rothstein at First Baptist Church-West. As Charlotte continues to grow, this event will attempt to educate the community on the issue of affordable housing and create conversation about alternative solutions.

Weekend Happenings

We’ve got a full page of things to keep you entertained through Sunday. Visit our special Weekend Events Page for the full listing.

This week’s Editor Picks:

  • Nina Simone: Four Women (Now through Feb. 16) —  Following the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, North Carolina native Nina Simone penned “Four Women.” The play uses the song’s framework to tell the stories of four women characterized by their skin color.
  • Opera Carolina presents: Carmen (Thurs.) — Check out the final performance featuring industry veteran Alyson Cambridge as Carmen, a character also portrayed by Dorothy Dandridge and Beyonce.
  • Queen’s Feast: Charlotte Restaurant Week (Now through Sun.) — 125+ restaurants will offer three-courses dinners for $30 or $35 per person.
  • Marvel Universe LIVE! Age of Heroes (Fri – Sun) — Fun times for Marvel fans as Black Panther, The Avengers, Spider-Man and others take on the bad guys to defend the universe.
  • Women United March (Sat.) — Will this year’s march represent a more diverse event? Once again, thousands will march in uptown Charlotte with music, speakers, vendors and more.
  • Charlotte Mini-Con 2019 (Sat.) — For the comic book lovers, Charlotte’s longest-running comic convention is back.

If you’re hosting an event, be sure to submit it. It could end up as an Editor’s Pick.

*While we do our best to confirm events, contact event organizers for questions.